The 5 Professionals Every Business Should Have in Their Corner

“Unity is strength… when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved.” – Mattie Stepanek

If you want to succeed, you need a solid team around you. This doesn’t mean hiring employees—it means surrounding yourself with trusted professionals who can support your journey.

Regardless of size or industry, every business needs a core group of advisors. Not having these five professionals on speed dial doesn’t just leave you vulnerable; it means you’re missing out on proactive advice that can prevent problems before they even start. Think of these experts as your business’s “starting five”—your foundation for stability, growth, and risk management.

1. Accounting Team: Your Financial Pulse Check

Yes, this might be a biased opinion—but you need a strong accounting team.

You don’t just need someone to reconcile accounts. You need someone who helps you understand cash flow, margins, profitability, and cost structure. Whether it’s monthly reporting, strategic planning, or cost analysis, a good accounting team drives better decision-making.

✅ Tip: Go beyond a bookkeeper. Look for an accounting partner who can scale with your business and offer controllership, forecasting, and deeper financial insight.

2. Tax Preparer (CPA or EA): Your Compliance Guardrail

A good tax preparer isn’t just for April 15—they’re a year-round strategic partner.

Tax season shouldn’t be a last-minute scramble. A qualified CPA or Enrolled Agent ensures you stay compliant and take advantage of all available strategies. The best ones coordinate closely with your accounting team to eliminate surprises and keep everything aligned.

✅ Tip: Choose someone who knows your industry inside and out—because tax law is nuanced, and experience matters.

3. Business Attorney: Your Legal Safety Net

The worst time to look for a lawyer is when you already need one.

Legal issues can unravel a business fast. A business attorney helps you avoid expensive mistakes—whether it's contracts, trademarks, employment law, or partnership agreements. Bonus points if they're part of a firm with broad capabilities and deep expertise.

✅ Tip: Engage legal counsel early. Get your structure and documents right from the start, and revisit them regularly as your business grows.

4. Banker: Your Capital and Credit Ally

A strong banking partner is like a cheat code for business growth.

A good banker does more than open accounts—they help with financing options, loan structuring, and strategic planning. When capital is needed, having a relationship in place can make the difference between opportunity and obstacle.

✅ Tip: Build a relationship with a banker who understands your business and has lending authority or direct access to decision-makers.

5. Insurance Broker: Your Risk Mitigator

Too often overlooked, but the one you’ll lean on when something goes wrong.

From general liability to cyber threats to key-person protection, businesses face risk in every direction. A great insurance broker will assess your needs, explain your options, and help tailor coverage that protects what you’re building.

✅ Tip: Choose a broker who reviews your policies annually and brings you proactive solutions as your business evolves.

Too many business owners wait until something breaks to build their team. These five professionals aren't just problem solvers—they’re growth enablers. Build your team early. Treat them as advisors, not vendors. Invest in relationships, and you’ll gain the resilience and confidence to grow your business with intention.

Go build your team—and give your business the foundation it deserves.

If you want introductions to any of these professional, reach out to me!